If you’re on the hunt for a delicate yet irresistibly buttery treat, this Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cookies bring together the classic crumbly texture of shortbread with a subtle, aromatic hint of lavender that will gently surprise and delight your taste buds. Perfect for teatime or as a sweet gift, these cookies are as elegant as they are simple to make, blending culinary tradition with a floral twist that feels both fresh and timeless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is where magic begins, and for this Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe, you’ll find they are straightforward but play a starring role in the final flavor and texture. Each one is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth softness and the wonderful floral undertones.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides the rich, creamy base essential for that signature shortbread texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness while keeping the crumb tender and smooth.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure and that classic shortbread density.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch: Lightens the dough to create melt-in-your-mouth softness.
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender: The star ingredient that infuses floral fragrance and subtle flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the butter’s natural flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm, comforting notes that perfectly complement the lavender.
How to Make Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick. This simple step sets the stage for a flawless baking experience.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, giving your cookies a wonderfully tender texture.
Step 3: Add Flavorings
Mix in the vanilla extract and dried culinary lavender to the creamed butter and sugar. Make sure the lavender is evenly spread throughout the dough so each bite has that lovely, fragrant touch we’re aiming for.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing here can make the cookies tough, so take it slow and steady to preserve that tender crumb.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and pop it into the fridge for 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to slice and maintain its shape while baking.
Step 6: Slice and Bake
Once chilled, slice the dough into thin, 1/4-inch rounds and place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet. Bake these lavender-infused delights for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn a lovely golden color.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This final step helps them firm up and reach that perfect shortbread crispness right before serving.
How to Serve Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe, consider sprinkling a tiny pinch of extra dried lavender or some coarse sugar on top before baking for a sparkly, fragrant finish. You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a delicate, snowy look that pairs beautifully with their floral notes.
Side Dishes
These cookies are fantastic alongside a warm cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea, as the floral and citrus hints in these teas complement the lavender perfectly. They also pair wonderfully with a mild cheese plate or fresh berries for an elegant afternoon snack.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, arrange your lavender shortbread cookies on a decorative platter alongside edible flowers or sprigs of fresh lavender. Tie a few cookies together with a pretty ribbon as charming homemade gifts that your friends will adore. Serving them in glass jars or vintage tins adds a nostalgic feel to any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay perfectly crisp and buttery for up to one week, making it easy to enjoy them whenever a craving strikes.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the dough log before slicing or freeze the baked cookies themselves. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. When frozen properly, they last up to 3 months without losing their delightful flavor and texture.
Reheating
Should you want to enjoy your lavender shortbread cookies warm, simply remove them from storage and let them come to room temperature. For a freshly baked feel, pop them in a 300°F oven for 3 to 5 minutes to bring back that just-out-of-the-oven softness without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried for this recipe?
Fresh lavender has a stronger moisture content, which can affect the texture of your cookies. It’s best to stick with dried culinary lavender to achieve the right balance of flavor without altering the dough consistency.
How important is cornstarch in this Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe?
Cornstarch is actually quite essential because it tenderizes the dough and contributes to the traditional crumbly texture of shortbread. Without it, the cookies might turn out denser and less delicate.
Can I substitute the butter with margarine or oil?
Butter is key to authentic shortbread’s flavor and texture. Margarine or oil will change both taste and structure, resulting in a less rich and crumbly cookie. For best results, use unsalted butter.
Is there a way to make these cookies gluten-free?
You can experiment with gluten-free flour blends that are designed for baking, but be aware that the texture might differ slightly. Adding a little extra cornstarch can help mimic the original tenderness.
How do I make sure the lavender flavor isn’t overpowering?
The amount of lavender in this recipe is moderate to provide a subtle floral note. Using culinary-grade dried lavender and distributing it evenly ensures the flavor is delicate rather than strong or soapy.
Final Thoughts
This Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe is truly a little piece of edible elegance that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, the gentle floral hint combined with buttery, crumbly goodness is sure to become a treasured favorite. Don’t hesitate to give these a try and enjoy a sweet moment of calm and joy with every bite.
Print
Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling time)
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the delicate, buttery texture of Lavender Shortbread Cookies infused with fragrant dried lavender and a hint of vanilla. Perfectly crisp yet tender, these classic shortbread cookies make an elegant treat for afternoon tea or a charming gift.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which will take about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and dried culinary lavender, mixing well to distribute the lavender evenly throughout the batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined to create a soft dough.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up for easier slicing.
- Slice and Bake: Remove the chilled dough from the fridge and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your fragrant, buttery lavender shortbread cookies!
Notes
- For best flavor, use culinary-grade dried lavender specifically intended for cooking.
- Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to keep the cookies tender.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- You can dust the cooled cookies lightly with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness and presentation.
- If desired, substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of rice flour for a slightly different texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
